Pregame: Purdue men’s basketball vs. Michigan

Jay Simpson is in street clothes tonight and will not play. The 6-foot-10 redshirt freshman center became dizzy during Sunday’s loss at Nebraska, fell to the court and did not return.

Purdue coach Matt Painter said on Tuesday that Simpson was still undergoing tests, and the team has not yet released any information on his status. Simpson, who took a medical redshirt last season, averages 4.3 points and 3.6 rebounds in 12 minutes per game.

A.J. Hammons collected 16 points, 8 rebounds and a block in the first game against Michigan. (Coincidentally, Painter benched Simpson for that game for some team infraction.) Travis Carroll had four points and two rebounds in 10 minutes that night and will again need to make an extended contribution.

Over his last four games, Hammons has averaged 7.5 points, 5.8 rebounds and 2.0 blocks — all under his season averages — while shooting 12-for-26 (46.2 percent). A resurgent night from him is likely crucial to Purdue’s upset bid.

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About Nathan Baird

I have worked for the Journal & Courier since 2005 and currently cover Purdue men's basketball. I grew up in central Illinois and am a graduate of the University of Illinois at Chicago.
Follow me on twitter @nbairdjc